High Bridge was constructed in 1853 to cross the Appomattox River east of Farmville, completing the South Side Railroad's connection from Petersburg to Lynchburg. The original bridge stood 125 feet above the river, was built on 21 brick piers, and stretched 2,529 feet in length. It served for 60 years and played a significant role in the Civil War as the armies of General Lee and General Grant marched westward from Richmond in April of 1865. The bridge was upgraded several times to handle increasing loads and rail traffic, but after the turn of the century it was ultimately replaced by an entirely new span. The newer bridge, which still stands, is supported by steel towers.
